Department of Commerce: Bloghttp://www.commerce.gov/feeds/blog/category/812
The most recent 20 items in this list.enInnovative Research Helps Emergency Responders Better Communicate While Indoorshttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/innovative-research-helps-emergency-responders-better-communicate-while-indoors
<p>Nearly everyone is familiar with the need to step outside a building to complete a wireless call. Modern building materials, such as aluminum, steel and even specially-coated window glass, significantly reduce or even block wireless signals.</p>
<p>While it might be inconvenient for your average mobile device user, it could become a matter of life or death for an emergency first responder. Police officers and firefighters cannot stop what they are doing to leave a building in order to communicate during a time of crisis.</p>
<p>As part of its mission to improve communications for public safety, the <a href="http://firstnet.gov/">First Responder Network Authority</a> (FirstNet), an independent entity within the Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), <a href="http://www.firstnet.gov/newsroom/blog/firstnet-evaluating-key-indoor-location-technologies-z-axis">identified</a> improved in-building communications as a critical need for first responders and a required component of the nationwide public safety broadband network it’s been tasked with deploying.</p>
<p>Providing reliable coverage indoors is a long-standing challenge. The <a href="http://www.its.bldrdoc.gov/">Institute for Telecommunication Sciences</a> (ITS), NTIA’s research laboratory in Boulder, Colo., has been researching in-building communications for many years, independently and as part of its <a href="http://www.pscr.gov">Public Safety Communications Research</a> (PSCR) partnership with Commerce’s <a href="http://www.nist.gov">National Institute of Standards and Technology</a>. Today, ITS released a <a href="http://www.its.bldrdoc.gov/publications/2807.aspx">new report</a> that describes the results of experiments conducted to investigate both the in-building coverage characteristics of future public safety mobile networks and ways to improve performance in such environments.</p>
<p>This research not only can be used to help first responders better communicate during emergencies, but it also may help spur innovation in commercial wireless networks also interested in enhancing indoor coverage.</p>
<p>This research, sponsored by the <a href="http://www.dhs.gov/">Department of Homeland Security</a>, involved a team of researchers led by ITS and the University of Colorado at Boulder that developed experimental techniques to characterize and improve in-building communications with and without supplemental radio transmitters. The team targeted the cellular technology envisioned by FirstNet—Long Term Evolution (LTE) operating in public safety frequency bands. LTE is the wireless technology used in 4G smart phones that allows for much faster transfers of data.</p>
<p>Using a backpack mounted measurement system, ITS researchers collected two independent LTE data streams while walking through multiple levels of two buildings—modeling the path that a first responder might take in response to an incident. The researchers found that to achieve reliable coverage, transmissions from the cell tower needed to be supplemented. Three different methods to improve in-building coverage were tested: a portable base station commonly referred to as a cell on wheels (COW), a small cell using standalone antennas that bring the network closer to the user, and a small cell using a distributed antenna system, which is a network of low-power cell antennas often used indoors to boost coverage.</p>
<p>The researchers were able to improve cell coverage with the help of these supplemental systems. However even with better coverage, data transfers were still slow in some cases due to the challenge of coordinating all the systems. Peak performance requires both adequate coverage and optimization of the network to ensure the smooth transfer of data or calls from a wireless device.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.its.bldrdoc.gov/publications/2807.aspx">This report</a> provides preliminary data that can be used to begin effective planning of in-building public safety LTE communications. It also identifies additional research needed to reliably predict in-building coverage, and points to the need to enhance coordination of all aspect of a network. We look forward to continuing to work on this important issue with FirstNet and PSCR as we seek to provide public safety officials with the 21<sup>st</sup> century tools they need to help save lives.</p>
Fri, 31 Jul 2015 15:43:08 -0400mkruger@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/innovative-research-helps-emergency-responders-better-communicate-while-indoorsSupporting Vibrant Native American Communities http://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/supporting-vibrant-native-american-communities
<p>When Secretary Pritzker declared that the Department of Commerce is “<a href="//www.commerce.gov/news/secretary-speeches/2013/11/open-business-agenda">open for business</a>,” she meant that this agency would be on the side of all businesses across our country – including Native American entrepreneurs, business owners, workers, tribal governments, and families.</p>
<p>Today, the Secretary will spend time meeting with Native American youth and tribal leaders in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to highlight the key services offered by our Department in Indian Country, such as data resources, trade promotion, infrastructure funding, access to capital, and contracting opportunities to promote robust, sustainable economic growth, opportunity, and job creation. </p>
<p>Here are a few examples of how Commerce partners with tribal communities:</p>
<p>The <strong>Economic Development Administration</strong> provides grants that help remove economic barriers and attract further investment to Indian Country, addressing a broad array of needs from facilities and infrastructure construction to technical assistance and revolving loan fund projects. Between FY 2009 and 2014, EDA awarded nearly $48 million in assistance to American Indian tribes and Alaska Native entities to start businesses, build roads and other infrastructure, and create economic development plans.</p>
<p>The<strong> Minority Business Development Agency </strong>leverages public and private resources to provide minority entrepreneurs, including Native clients, with access to expertise, capital, contracts, and new markets. During the Obama Administration thus far, MBDA has assisted Native American clients in accessing nearly $1.87 billion in capital, through its nationwide network of business centers - six of which are located in high Native population areas: Anchorage, Alaska; Fresno, California; Santa Fe, New Mexico; Bismarck, North Dakota; Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Bridgeport, Connecticut.</p>
<p>Expanding broadband Internet access and adoption in America is a key element of the <strong>National Telecommunications and Information Administration</strong>’s mission. Through the Broadband Technology Opportunity Program, NTIA provided $1 billion for projects benefitting tribes, $43 million of which was awarded directly to tribal governments. The Broadband USA initiative will support continued work to help Native communities expand broadband infrastructure and adoption by convening stakeholders and community leaders, sharing lessons learned, developing toolkits, and providing technical assistance.</p>
<p>The<strong> U.S. Patent and Trademark Office</strong> protects against misappropriation of official tribal insignia by maintaining a tribal insignia database. USPTO has also partnered with the Department of Interior’s Indian Arts and Crafts Board on programs targeted to intellectual property and false advertising concerns of Native American craftspeople.</p>
<p>The<strong> Economic and Statistics Administration, </strong>which includes the Census bureau and the Bureau of Economic Analysis<strong>, </strong>is the primary source of reputable, current information about our nation’s economy, businesses, and people. Among its wide array of projects and programs, the Census Bureau conducts a Boundary and Annexation Survey annually to collect changes to legal boundaries, names, and governmental status for federally-recognized tribes, off-reservation trust land, and tribal subdivisions within the United States. Census is currently developing its Survey of Business Owners, due out in September of this year, which will include statistics on Native-owned businesses.</p>
<p>The <strong>International Trade Administration</strong>, through a nationwide network of over 100 U.S. Export Assistance Centers in conjunction with headquarters staff, has helped Native businesses and tribes enter and compete in foreign markets and attract business to reservation economies through export assistance, tourism promotion, and foreign trade zone designation. Recent examples of ITA’s work include export assistance to the Mohegan tribe, tourism promotion in collaboration with Native communities in Kansas and Oklahoma, and the foreign trade zone designation of an industrial park owned by the Citizen Potawatomi Nation.</p>
<p>You can learn more about the Department of Commerce’s services for Native American businesses and communities here <a href="//www.commerce.gov/os/olia/native-american-affairs">http://www.commerce.gov/os/olia/native-american-affairs</a></p>
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Fri, 31 Jul 2015 10:24:47 -0400kcpullen@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/supporting-vibrant-native-american-communitiesSecretary Pritzker Talks Digital Economy and Innovation with EUhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/secretary-pritzker-talks-digital-economy-and-innovation-eu
<p>Last week, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker traveled to Brussels, where she engaged European Union leaders in <a href="//www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/commerce-and-digital-economy-towards-transatlantic-partnership">discussions on the transatlantic digital economy</a>. This visit followed the EU’s May announcement of an ambitious set of reforms to tackle internal barriers to e-commerce and online services and foster growth in the continent’s digital economy.</p>
<p>While turning the May announcement into concrete policy will take time, the resultant “Digital Single Market” (DSM) could create significant benefits for Europe’s consumers and businesses, as well as for the many U.S. companies that have long invested there. While in Brussels, Secretary Pritzker voiced her support for the overall goals of the DSM initiative and the promise of a more integrated European digital market.</p>
<p>The Secretary also emphasized the importance of Europe’s digital single market developing as part of an open and vibrant transatlantic Internet ecosystem. To be truly effective, the DSM must remove the barriers that make it hard for European entrepreneurs to achieve scale across the continent, while allowing established European and U.S. firms to continue delivering innovative services for local SMEs and consumers. In meetings with Secretary Pritzker, European Commission Vice-President for the Digital Single Market Andrus Ansip and Commissioner for Digital Economy and Society Günther Oettinger both affirmed the importance of continued market openness. Secretary Pritzker also took the opportunity to meet with Vice-President for Jobs, Growth, Investment, and Competitiveness Jyrki Katainen and <a href="https://twitter.com/PennyPritzker/status/624227229690675201">Commissioner for Justice, Consumers, and Gender Equality Věra Jourová.</a></p>
<p>More broadly, to drive lasting growth in the digital economy, governments must enable entrepreneurs to bring their ideas from lab to market, access needed capital, and sell their products in markets around Europe, the United States, and the world – goals to which both the European Commission and the U.S. Department of Commerce are dedicated. Creating this enabling environment for technology-driven growth is a daily focus at the Commerce Department, “America’s Innovation Agency.”</p>
<p>In light of the many shared objectives and values, Secretary Pritzker is committed to working jointly with EU counterparts on the digital issues shaping our modern, interdependent economies. Like the officials with whom she met, the Secretary looks forward to this sustained engagement as both parties navigate the opportunities of the digital economy together.</p>
Thu, 30 Jul 2015 15:26:29 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/secretary-pritzker-talks-digital-economy-and-innovation-euLivestream of Commerce Data Advisory Committee Meeting on July 30, 2015http://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/livestream-commerce-data-advisory-committee-meeting-july-30-2015
<p>The Commerce Data Advisory Council (CDAC) is holding its second meeting at Intel’s Headquarters in Santa Clara, California on Thursday, July 30. Appointed by Secretary Pritzker, the 19-member council provides guidance on areas such as data management practices; common, open data standards; policy issues related to privacy, latency, and consistency; effective models for public-private partnership; external uses of Commerce data; and methods to build new feedback loops between the Department and data users. The council is comprised of leading technologists and data leaders who work for some of the most innovate public and private sector organizations, including: Intel, Google, IBM, LinkedIn, PayPal, Amazon Web Services, City of San Francisco, Indiana University, and more.</p>
<p>Throughout the day, Commerce officials will update the council members on the Department's new data initiatives including the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s “Open Data Initiative” and the Census Bureau’s income and wealth data project. Commerce Department leaders will also discuss government-wide strategies to recruit tech talent to the public sector and establish new partnerships with industry.</p>
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vaPIYb7NDRc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>Thu, 30 Jul 2015 11:57:24 -0400mkruger@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/livestream-commerce-data-advisory-committee-meeting-july-30-2015U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker Joins President Obama in Kenya for Global Entrepreneurship Summithttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/us-secretary-commerce-penny-pritzker-joins-president-obama-kenya-global
<p>As the Administration’s point person on entrepreneurship, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker joined President Obama in Nairobi, Kenya to attend the sixth annual Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES). At the summit, Secretary Pritzker had the opportunity to highlight the work that the Department of Commerce does to address and support innovation, and meet with entrepreneurs, investors, educators, government officials, and business representatives from around the world. </p>
<p>As “America’s Innovation Agency,” Secretary Pritzker and the Department of Commerce understand the importance of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. One effort is the Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE) initiative which brings together some of America’s most successful business leaders to provide support to and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.</p>
<p>Four PAGE ambassadors attended the Global Entrepreneurship Summit with Secretary Pritzker, including Airbnb CEO and co-founder <a href="http://1.usa.gov/1IiCrvl">Brian Chesky</a>; Chairman and CEO of Revolution <a href="//www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2014/10/page-entrepreneurs-their-own-words-steve-case">Steve Case</a>; Executive Chair of the Board of Kiva, <a href="http://1.usa.gov/1TOFTji">Julie Hanna</a>; and CEO of FUBU and Shark Branding, <a href="http://1.usa.gov/1HVdHpH">Daymond John</a>.</p>
<p>As part of the summit, Secretary Pritzker hosted a roundtable discussion with the four PAGE members, colleagues from the Small Business Administration, U.S. Agency for International Development, and the U.S. State Department, as well as more than 30 entrepreneurs from around the world who receive USG support. The roundtable offered an opportunity for the global entrepreneurs to receive feedback on their enterprises and discuss how they are successfully working with the U.S. government. </p>
<p>In addition, Secretary Pritzker also participated in a tour of the GES Innovation Marketplace, where startups and government organizations set up booths to showcase their ideas. While visiting the Innovation Marketplace, Secretary Pritzker engaged with global entrepreneurs, and learned more about the diverse range of ideas emerging from the African region. One company that Secretary Pritzker learned more about was D.Light, a global social enterprise that offers a solar alternative to kerosene lamps and aims to improve the lives of the two billion people in the developing world who live without access to reliable energy. According to the vendor, about 10 million students are using these lamps to study at night.</p>
<p>The Commerce Department’s engagement in Africa via the Global Entrepreneurship Summit builds on a host of initiatives we have undertaken to help generate greater prosperity across the continent. We see tremendous opportunities for increased economic and commercial engagement in Africa, and believe that business can be a key bridge to helping Africans realize greater prosperity. </p>
Wed, 29 Jul 2015 09:58:56 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/us-secretary-commerce-penny-pritzker-joins-president-obama-kenya-globalNIST to Host First App Challenge to Improve Data Accesshttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/nist-host-first-app-challenge-improve-data-access
<p><em>Guest Post by NIST’s <a href="http://www.nist.gov/mml/odi/robert-hanisch.cfm">Dr. Robert Hanisch</a>, Office of Data Informatics, and Dr. Heather Evans, Program Coordination Office</em></p>
<p><img align="right" height="204" hspace="12" src="file:///C:/Users/kcpullen/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image002.jpg" width="204" />The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) plays an essential role in developing and distributing Standard Reference Data, or SRD. The NIST <a href="http://www.nist.gov/srd/">SRD collection</a> contains some of the world’s most accurate and comprehensive datasets of physical, materials science, chemical, and biological data. Physicists, biochemical engineers, environmental researchers, and many other technically trained experts routinely use NIST SRD in their workday. Students from high school through graduate school use the same datasets to master the ropes of scientific discovery. </p>
<p>But is there a better way to share NIST SRD with the researchers who need it? That’s the assumption behind the <a href="http://nistdata.challengepost.com/"><strong>Reference Data Challenge</strong></a>. NIST is offering prizes totaling $45,000 to software developers who create the most innovative and impactful Apps using NIST reference data. The challenge is open to U.S. citizens or permanent residents over the age of 18. Visit the <a href="http://nistdata.challengepost.com/">challenge website</a> to learn more about the eligibility requirements and what is required in a submission. A panel of judges – to be announced soon! - will determine which Apps are deserving of 1<sup>st</sup>, 2<sup>nd</sup>, and 3<sup>rd</sup> prize cash awards.</p>
<p>From now until September 28<sup>th</sup>, NIST invites submissions of mobile applications to the Reference Data Challenge that use at least one of six <a href="http://nistdata.challengepost.com/details/data">eligible NIST datasets</a>. All of the eligible datasets are freely accessible online, both at the NIST website and on data.gov in machine-readable format. The eligible datasets include a wide range of physical and chemical reference data. For example, CODATA Fundamental Physical Constants (SRD 121) contains the most accurate values for essential constants like the mass of the electron and the speed of light. On the other hand, the ITS-90 Thermocouple Database (SRD 60) contains temperature calibration data regularly used by instrument engineers on products such as commercial furnaces and kitchen ovens.</p>
<p>The Reference Data Challenge is a call for innovative approaches to a long-standing NIST role. Formalized in the Standard Reference Data Act of 1968, NIST is responsible to make “critically evaluated reference data readily available to scientists, engineers, and the general public.” Today, there are more than 100 reference data products available from NIST <a href="http://www.nist.gov/srd/">online</a>.</p>
<p>Two years ago, NIST created the <a href="http://www.nist.gov/mml/odi/">Office of Data and Informatics</a> within its <a href="http://www.nist.gov/mml/">Material Measurement Laboratory</a> to be a premier resource for transforming NIST data into products that can be reliably and broadly shared. Looking forward, the office is excited to revolutionize how NIST data are used by providing additional tools, like APIs (application program interfaces) and easily accessible online repositories.</p>
<p>Join NIST in this modernization effort by participating in the Reference Data Challenge today! </p>
Tue, 28 Jul 2015 09:37:23 -0400kcpullen@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/nist-host-first-app-challenge-improve-data-accessPAGE Video Series: Theranos’ Elizabeth Holmeshttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-theranos-elizabeth-holmes
<p>Elizabeth Holmes is committed to improving living conditions around the world for women, young girls and developing economies. As CEO and founder of Theranos, a consumer healthcare technology company, she wants people to know that they can stand up for themselves and live their best lives.</p>
<p>In 2003, Elizabeth Holmes founded Theranos at the age of 19 with the mission to make actionable health information accessible to people everywhere at the time it matters, enabling early detection and intervention of disease, and empowering individuals with information to live the lives they want to live. Holmes left Stanford University's School of Engineering to build Theranos around her patents and belief that access to health information is a basic human right. For the last decade, she has led the company from concept to reality, enabling a new paradigm of consumer health and prevention. Theranos' breakthrough advancements have made it possible to quickly process the full range of laboratory tests from a few drops of blood - instead of numerous tubes. The tests also come at unprecedented low costs and are now directly accessible to people and their physicians through Theranos Wellness Centers opening nationwide.</p>
<p>Elizabeth led the passing of the first law in our nation's history to give individuals the explicit right to direct access laboratory testing. The law was based on a draft she wrote, enfranchising 7 million people from Arizona, facilitating engagement with and protection of physicians, and creating a model for other states across the country to shift toward preventative care, individual empowerment and price transparency. Holmes is the youngest person to be awarded the Horatio Alger Award, and was named one of the TIME 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2015.</p>
<p>Elizabeth’s rise in the entrepreneurship and healthcare worlds led to her appointment as a <u><a href="//www.commerce.gov/page">Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE) initiative</a></u> member. Elizabeth’s PAGE initiative focuses on two central tenets core to her own life mission: empowering women in science, technology, mathematics and business, and working on breakthroughs in global health. Elizabeth will spend time in Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East mentoring and supporting young women, and will partner with the U.S. Department of State's TechWomen program to work with the next generation of global female leaders in Silicon Valley and in their home countries. Elizabeth will also work with USAID’s Center for Accelerating Innovation and Impact (CII) and USAID's Bureau for Global Health on realizing breakthroughs in global health, especially related to the containment of infectious diseases.</p>
<p>Watch Elizabeth Holmes speak about how she plans to empower young female entrepreneurs and raise awareness for global health with PAGE <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_epl0OndhHs">here</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About PAGE:</strong></p>
<p>Launched in April 2014, PAGE was created to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and abroad. The initiative formed as a partnership among celebrated entrepreneurs, the White House, the Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Department of State. In the initiative’s first year, PAGE members utilized their knowledge, ideas, and talent to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and around the world to promote the program’s mission. As PAGE kicks off its second year, each ambassador has agreed to take the lead on his or her own signature initiative to address the global growing demand for engagement with America’s most respected and celebrated business creators.</p>
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Mon, 27 Jul 2015 17:05:14 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-theranos-elizabeth-holmesPAGE Video Series: FUBU’s Daymond Johnhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-fubus-daymond-john
<p>Daymond John, known for his role as an angel investor on ABC’s hit television show “Shark Tank,” says that “the idea of being an entrepreneur is the DNA of this country.”</p>
<p>Daymond John is the CEO and Founder of FUBU, a global lifestyle brand and a pioneer in the fashion industry with over $6 billion in product sales. For his entrepreneurial work, he has received over 35 awards including the Brandweek Marketer of the Year, Advertising Age Marketing 1000 Award for Outstanding Ad Campaign, and Ernst &amp; Young’s New York Entrepreneur of the Year Award.</p>
<p>John’s marketing strategies and ability to build successful brands have made him a highly influential consultant and motivational speaker. His marketing firm Shark Branding offers advice on how to effectively communicate to consumers through innovative means, and connects brands with the world’s top celebrities for everything from endorsements to product extensions. In 2009, he joined the cast of ABC entrepreneurial business show “Shark Tank” by acclaimed producer Mark Burnett. Millions of viewers tune into the show as John demonstrates his marketing prowess and entrepreneurial insights.</p>
<p>John’s positive influence and leadership within the entrepreneurship ecosystem led to his appointment as a <a href="//www.commerce.gov/page">Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE) initiative</a> member. In his signature PAGE initiative, John will work with underserved entrepreneurs and emerging digital influencers to help them develop customer bases and brands. He will help this audience develop new business models that can turn homegrown operations into successful businesses. In addition, Daymond will share his story of hope and opportunity, along with his knowledge of building a business with entrepreneurs around the U.S. and abroad through his role in Shark Tank, and new financial inclusion partnerships.</p>
<p>In March, John teamed up with Capital One and General Assembly to launch an Opportunity Fellows Fund, which will aim to make education for careers in the digital economy more accessible to people across country from diverse, and often underserved, backgrounds. Most recently, Daymond's announced a multi-million dollar commitment to offer digital educational and financial literacy tools for <a href="http://www.mbkalliance.org/">My Brother's Keeper Alliance</a> and plans to partner with other brands to offer mentorship, resources, and empowerment to the next generation of entrepreneurs.</p>
<p>Watch Daymond John share how he plans to improve financial and digital literacy with PAGE <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_epl0OndhHs">here</a>.</p>
<p>To deliver the message of PAGE’s mission and discuss his new initiative, John attended the <a href="http://www.ges2015.org/">2015 Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES)</a> in Nairobi, Kenya with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker. Daymond used his voice and platform to connect with and inspire entrepreneurs at GES, <a href="//www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2015/07/us-commerce-secretary-penny-pritzker-attend-global-entrepreneurship">alongside other PAGE ambassadors</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About PAGE:</strong></p>
<p>Launched in April 2014, PAGE was created to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and abroad. The initiative formed as a partnership among celebrated entrepreneurs, the White House, the Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Department of State. In the initiative’s first year, PAGE members utilized their knowledge, ideas, and talent to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and around the world to promote the program’s mission. As PAGE kicks off its second year, each ambassador has agreed to take the lead on his or her own signature initiative to address the global growing demand for engagement with America’s most respected and celebrated business creators.</p>
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Mon, 27 Jul 2015 12:22:15 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-fubus-daymond-johnPAGE Video Series: Wealthfront’s Ali Rosenthalhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-wealthfronts-ali-rosenthal
<p><a href="//www.commerce.gov/page">Presidential Ambassador for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE)</a> member Alison Rosenthal believes that effective partnerships play a critical role in the creation and success of businesses.</p>
<p>Since September 2014, Alison has served as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Wealthfront, Inc., an automated investment service. Prior to Wealthfront, Ali served as Chief Operating Officer of MessageMe, a company that develops and offers a multimedia messaging application for mobile devices, and as Executive in Residence at Greylock Partners, a leading venture capital firm.</p>
<p>Her roles at these firms have allowed her insight into the formulation and maintenance of strategic partnerships that are so important in any company, particularly in businesses just starting out.</p>
<p>As part of her signature PAGE initiative, Ali will provide support to businesses trying to form these partnerships. Ali will help entrepreneurs incorporate strategic partnerships into their business models by presenting several frameworks and meeting with groups of entrepreneurs at all levels to discuss how to build effective partnership programs. Ali hopes to teach budding entrepreneurs how to set realistic goals and achieve them through effective partnerships.</p>
<p>Watch Alison talk about the PAGE program and the importance of strategic partnerships <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xwp-y6tFLnI">here</a>. </p>
<p><strong>About PAGE: </strong></p>
<p>Launched in April 2014, PAGE was created to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and abroad. The initiative formed as a partnership among celebrated entrepreneurs, the White House, the Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Department of State. In the initiative’s first year, PAGE members utilized their knowledge, ideas, and talent to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and around the world to promote the program’s mission. As PAGE kicks off its second year, each ambassador has agreed to take the lead on his or her own signature initiative to address the global growing demand for engagement with America’s most respected and celebrated business creators.</p>
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Fri, 24 Jul 2015 16:35:48 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-wealthfronts-ali-rosenthalDay 1 at GES: Highlighting Youth and Women Entrepreneurshttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/day-1-ges-highlighting-youth-and-women-entrepreneurs
<p>Before the official start of the sixth annual Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES), nearly 300 young and women entrepreneurs came together today to learn, to get practical advice, to make the connections that will take their enterprises to the next level, and to hear stories and receive guidance from top American and global innovators.</p>
<p>As part of a day-long event, focused exclusively on the challenges and opportunities faced by youth and women, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker – a business leader in her own right and the Obama Administration’s point-person on entrepreneurship – moderated a panel discussion on “Becoming Investor Ready,” featuring Chef Jose Andres, a culinary innovator and owner of ThinkFood Group; Julie Hanna, Chair of the Board of Kiva, the world’s first and largest crowd lending marketplace for global entrepreneurs; and Daymond John, Founder of FUBU and CEO of Shark Branding.</p>
<p>These iconic U.S.-based entrepreneurs and investors talked about how they raised funds, overcame challenges, and created successful businesses. They encouraged the audience of entrepreneurs to be willing to take risks, and to surround themselves with people who add new ideas and skills to their enterprise. They spoke about how fostering entrepreneurship can spur the development of new products and services, create jobs for workers, and anchor communities and families worldwide.</p>
<p>Ms. Hanna and Mr. John are two of the newest members of the Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE) initiative, a program launched by President Obama and chaired by Secretary Pritzker. PAGE deploys some of America’s top business minds across the country and around the world to inspire, mentor, advise, and guide the next generation of entrepreneurs.</p>
<p>Secretary Pritzker will join President Obama at the official GES opening tomorrow. </p>
<p>In addition to leading today’s panel, Secretary Pritzker met with government officials including U.S. Ambassador to Kenya Robert Godec and Kenya’s Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Amina Mohamed.</p>
<p>This is the first GES held in sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting the dynamism and potential of this region.</p>
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Fri, 24 Jul 2015 16:17:21 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/day-1-ges-highlighting-youth-and-women-entrepreneursPAGE Video Series: Venture for America’s Andrew Yanghttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-venture-americas-andrew-yang
<p><a href="//www.commerce.gov/page">Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE)</a> member and Venture for America CEO Andrew Yang believes that preparing recent college graduates for the 21<sup>st</sup> century workforce is crucially important to American business. “I think that’s what people want to preserve and sustain: that spirit of enterprise that’s made this country great for its entire history,” he said.</p>
<p>Throughout his career, Andrew has worked in start-ups and early stage growth companies as a founder or executive for more than twelve years. He was the CEO and President of Manhattan GMAT, a test preparation company that was acquired by the Washington Post/Kaplan in 2009. He has also served as the co-founder of an Internet company and an executive at a health care software start-up.</p>
<p>Because of his innovative approaches to business, Andrew has been recognized by the White House as a Champion of Change, and Fast Company has named him as one of the “100 Most Creative People in Business.”</p>
<p>To provide critical skills training for young people, Andrew founded and is currently the CEO of Venture for America, a fellowship program that places top college graduates in start-ups for two years in emerging U.S. cities to generate job growth and train the next generation of entrepreneurs.</p>
<p>As a PAGE member, Andrew has created a Signature Initiative to help prepare even more young people. Andrew will provide the technical assistance to enable the adoption of a native "Venture for Country" in nations interested in stimulating regional economic growth and the development of entrepreneurs. Domestically, Andrew will recruit and train 500 aspiring young entrepreneurs in the United States, including 200 women and 100 underrepresented minorities, to work and launch companies in Detroit, Baltimore, New Orleans, Cleveland, St. Louis, Providence, and other U.S. cities.</p>
<p>Watch Andrew talk <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAmBvg4NOi0">here</a> about the PAGE program and the importance of supporting young people to become successful entrepreneurs.</p>
<p><strong>About PAGE:</strong></p>
<p>Launched in April 2014, PAGE was created to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and abroad. The initiative formed as a partnership among celebrated entrepreneurs, the White House, the Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Department of State. In the initiative’s first year, PAGE members utilized their knowledge, ideas, and talent to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and around the world to promote the program’s mission. As PAGE kicks off its second year, each ambassador has agreed to take the lead on his or her own signature initiative to address the global growing demand for engagement with America’s most respected and celebrated business creators.</p>
<p>
</p>
Fri, 24 Jul 2015 14:28:10 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-venture-americas-andrew-yangU.S. Census Bureau Honors 25th Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)http://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/us-census-bureau-honors-25th-anniversary-americans-disabilities-act-ada
<p>On July 26, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed into law the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, transportation, public accommodations, commercial facilities, telecommunications, and state and local government services.</p>
<p>To commemorate the 25th anniversary of this law’s enactment, the U.S. Census Bureau has released a demographic snapshot of the U.S. population with a disability and examines various services available to them. The statistics come from various Census Bureau censuses and surveys, covering differing periods of time.</p>
<p><strong>56.7 million</strong></p>
<p>Number of people in the United States in 2010 with a disability, according to the Survey of Income and Program Participation. People with disabilities represented 19 percent of the civilian noninstitutionalized population. People with a disability have a physical or mental impairment that affects one or more major life activities, such as walking, bathing, dressing, eating, preparing meals, going outside the home or doing housework. A disability can occur at birth or at any point in a person’s life.</p>
<p><strong>20.2%</strong></p>
<p>Percent of the civilian noninstitutionalized population in West Virginia in 2013 with a disability — the highest rate of any state in the nation. Utah, at 9.5 percent, had the lowest rate.</p>
<p><strong>2,794</strong></p>
<p>The number of business establishments providing special needs transportation in 2012, up 19 percent from 2,347 in 2007. Such businesses may use specially equipped vehicles to provide passenger transportation. These businesses employed 62,221 people in 2012 and generated revenues of $3.6 billion. Employment was up 25.3 percent and revenues increased 31.5 percent since 2007.</p>
<p><strong>5,899</strong></p>
<p>Number of business establishments providing services for the elderly and people with disabilities in 2012. These businesses employed 911,331 workers and generated $34.4 billion in revenues. In 2007, there were 20,433 such establishments, employing 621,545 and producing $25.3 billion in revenues. These establishments provide for the welfare of these individuals in such areas as day care, nonmedical home care or homemaker services, social activities, group support and companionship.</p>
<p>For more information and statistics, please go to the U.S. Census Bureau's <a href="http://www.census.gov/newsroom/facts-for-features/2015/cb15-ff10.html">Facts for Features issue on the 25th Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act: July 26.</a></p>
Fri, 24 Jul 2015 11:17:10 -0400kcpullen@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/us-census-bureau-honors-25th-anniversary-americans-disabilities-act-adaPAGE Video Series: GoldieBlox’s Debbie Sterlinghttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-goldiebloxs-debbie-sterling
<p>In 2012, Debbie Sterling asked, “Why is it that girls play with dolls and ponies and tea sets and boys build with construction sets and have super heroes and action figures?” Ever since then, she has been on a mission to inspire a new generation of young girls to think beyond the “pink aisle.”</p>
<p>Debbie Sterling is the CEO and Founder of GoldieBlox, an award‐winning toy company that introduces girls to the joy of engineering at a young age. An engineer and entrepreneur herself, Sterling seeks to tackle and remove the gender gap in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Sterling was named TIME's “Person of the Moment” and is regarded as one of the leaders of the movement toward getting more girls interested in engineering and technology.</p>
<p>GoldieBlox has been named one of the “Most Audacious Companies of 2014,” by Inc. Magazine, one of the “World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2014” by Fast Company, and “People’s Choice Toy Of the Year 2014” by the Toy Industry Association. In January 2014, GoldieBlox beat out more than 20,000 businesses in a contest run by Intuit to become the first‐ever small business to air a commercial during the Super Bowl.</p>
<p>Sterling’s vision of rethinking cultural stereotypes by empowering future entrepreneurs led to her appointment as a <a href="//www.commerce.gov/page">Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE) initiative</a> member this past year. In her signature PAGE initiative, Debbie will work to introduce girls to STEM through a variety of mechanisms, including the production of a video series focused on the need for more female innovators and highlighting the exciting opportunities STEM provides for girls. She will also partner with organizations like Alex's Lemonade Stand and the Girl Scouts of America, which provide platforms for exposing girls to their first experience as entrepreneurs.</p>
<p>Watch Debbie Sterling share her story on empowering young women with PAGE <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3x6veVbT7o">here</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About PAGE:</strong></p>
<p>Launched in April 2014, PAGE was created to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and abroad. The initiative formed as a partnership among celebrated entrepreneurs, the White House, the Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Department of State. In the initiative’s first year, PAGE members utilized their knowledge, ideas, and talent to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and around the world to promote the program’s mission. As PAGE kicks off its second year, each ambassador has agreed to take the lead on his or her own signature initiative to address the global growing demand for engagement with America’s most respected and celebrated business creators.</p>
<p> </p>
Thu, 23 Jul 2015 15:38:33 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-goldiebloxs-debbie-sterlingPAGE Video Series: KIND&#039;s Daniel Lubetzkyhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-kinds-daniel-lubetzky
<p>Daniel Lubetzky invests his time into building businesses that “get people to discover each other’s humanity, cement relationships with each other, leverage change, and help us have positive impacts on society.”</p>
<p>As founder and CEO of KIND, Lubetzky is on a mission to make the world a little kinder one snack and one act at a time. Following the footsteps of his father, a holocaust survivor turned entrepreneur, Daniel quickly developed a knack for integrating his humanitarian efforts with his innovative business approaches. Launched in 2004, KIND is now the fastest growing U.S. snack company, and through the KIND Movement, has inspired more than one million kind acts with the help of its community.</p>
<p>In addition to the KIND Movement, Lubetzky has created not-only-for-profit organizations such as PeaceWorks Inc., a business that fosters cooperative ventures among neighbors in the Middle East, and co-created Maiyet, a luxury fashion brand that partners with artisans to promote entrepreneurship in developing economies. He founded PeaceWorks Foundation’s OneVoice Movement, an international grassroots effort that amplifies Israeli and Palestinian moderate voices, and is the author of the New York Times bestseller <em>Do the KIND Thing</em> as well.</p>
<p>Lubetzky’s passion for aligning his social objectives with his businesses’ financial goals made him an exemplary <a href="//www.commerce.gov/page">Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE) initiative</a> member. For his signature initiative, Daniel will focus on challenging the next generation of global entrepreneurs to develop creative business models that balance commercial success with social purpose. This Initiative intends to spark a dialogue about redefining the role of business in society. He will partner with organizations and participate in speaking engagements to further this message, as well as provide educational opportunities in this area including a pitching competition for entrepreneurs whose mission includes doing well by doing good.</p>
<p>Watch Daniel Lubetzky talk about his recent work to promote the KIND movement with PAGE <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wdhVaYoUBDc">here</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About PAGE:</strong></p>
<p>Launched in April 2014, PAGE was created to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and abroad. The initiative formed as a partnership among celebrated entrepreneurs, the White House, the Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Department of State. In the initiative’s first year, PAGE members utilized their knowledge, ideas, and talent to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and around the world to promote the program’s mission. As PAGE kicks off its second year, each ambassador has agreed to take the lead on his or her own signature initiative to address the global growing demand for engagement with America’s most respected and celebrated business creators.</p>
<p> </p>
Thu, 23 Jul 2015 11:49:34 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-kinds-daniel-lubetzkyPAGE Video Series: CyPhy Works&#039; Helen Greinerhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-cyphy-works-helen-greiner
<p>Throughout her career, Helen Greiner has been known for her visionary technological contributions that combine engineering and innovation to create new products that change the world we live in. “Engineers these days come in all different forms, genders, races, and you need that to add a diverse background to your products,” she said.</p>
<p>Helen is currently the CEO of CyPhy Works, Inc, a company that designs and delivers innovative robots. In 1990, she co-founded iRobot, which has become the global leader of mobile robots, with the success of the Roomba™ Vacuuming Robot, the PackBot™, and SUGV Military Robots.</p>
<p>For Helen, inspiring the next generation of young people to work in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields is crucially important to our global, technology-driven economy, and she believes that there are significant opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship within these fields.</p>
<p>As a member of the <a href="//www.commerce.gov/page">Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE)</a> initiative, Helen hopes to reach these young people through her Signature Initiative. Over the course of the year, Helen will work to inspire young people to become engineers and then entrepreneurs through exposure to robotic technologies. Her speaking engagements include keynoting the 2015 Congress of Future Science and Technology Leaders and the 2016 BotBall Championships. Helen will follow up on these early exposure programs, and continue to foster technological literacy through her work as a trustee of the Boston Museum of Science and advisor to Worcester Polytechnic Institute.</p>
<p>Watch Helen talk about the intersection of technology and entrepreneurship <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1yY3ytRBu8">here</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About PAGE: </strong></p>
<p>Launched in April 2014, PAGE was created to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and abroad. The initiative formed as a partnership among celebrated entrepreneurs, the White House, the Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Department of State. In the initiative’s first year, PAGE members utilized their knowledge, ideas, and talent to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and around the world to promote the program’s mission. As PAGE kicks off its second year, each ambassador has agreed to take the lead on his or her own signature initiative to address the global growing demand for engagement with America’s most respected and celebrated business creators.</p>
<p> </p>
Wed, 22 Jul 2015 17:46:05 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-cyphy-works-helen-greinerPAGE Video Series: Pinnacle Technical Resources’ Nina Vacahttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-pinnacle-technical-resources-nina-vaca
<p>Over the past 19 years, Nina’s leadership as the founder and CEO of Pinnacle Technical Resources has propelled the company to become one of the largest IT Services firms in the country. Her own professional success places her in a unique position to provide support to potential entrepreneurs who are integral to the American economy. She thinks that “a lot of people have no idea that entrepreneurs are responsible for 65 percent of the vast new jobs in America in the last two decades. People don’t know that there are 10.6 million women-owned businesses in this country that generate over $1 trillion and employ 19 million Americans.”</p>
<p>As a Latina women and entrepreneur, Nina Vaca recognizes the importance of opening doors for female and Latino innovators around the country. In addition to her role at Pinnacle, she is the Chairman Emeritus of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, an organization that advocates and promotes more than 3 million Hispanic businesses across the country. In 2013, NBCLatino named her one of 20 “Innovators” for her work and leadership. For five consecutive years, Latino Leaders Magazine has named her one of the “101 Most Influential Latinos.” </p>
<p>As part of her effort to provide this support, Nina has been part of the <a href="//www.commerce.gov/page">Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE)</a> initiative since its inception in 2013. Through the PAGE program, Nina has created her own Signature Initiative, and will work with the National Women's Business Enterprise Council (WBENC) over the course of the year to provide resources including mentorship and funding opportunities for women entrepreneurs. WBENC works to offer needle-moving opportunities for the more than 9 million women-owned businesses across the country. Additionally, Nina will grow her “At the Table” initiative as chairman of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) Foundation. “At the Table” leverages networks and resources to help women business enterprises scale their companies.</p>
<p>Watch Nina talk more about her goals as a PAGE member <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XD-XUw8K3eU">here</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About PAGE: </strong></p>
<p>Launched in April 2014, PAGE was created to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and abroad. The initiative formed as a partnership among celebrated entrepreneurs, the White House, the Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Department of State. In the initiative’s first year, PAGE members utilized their knowledge, ideas, and talent to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and around the world to promote the program’s mission. As PAGE kicks off its second year, each ambassador has agreed to take the lead on his or her own signature initiative to address the global growing demand for engagement with America’s most respected and celebrated business creators.</p>
<p> </p>
Wed, 22 Jul 2015 16:38:01 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-pinnacle-technical-resources-nina-vacaBureau of Industry and Security Implements Removal of State Sponsor of Terrorism Designation for Cubahttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/bureau-industry-and-security-implements-removal-state-sponsor-terrorism
<p>Today, the United States Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) implemented the Secretary of State’s removal of Cuba from the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism. The revisions, on public display <a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2015-17981.pdf">today at the Federal Register</a>, eliminate references in the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to Cuba as a State Sponsor of Terrorism.</p>
<p>U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker previously gave <a href="//www.commerce.gov/news/secretary-speeches/2015/03/us-commerce-secretary-penny-pritzker-delivers-remarks-state-us">remarks</a> regarding President Obama’s decision to normalize diplomatic ties with Cuba at a forum in Tampa, Florida, hosted by Congresswoman Kathy Castor, the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce, and the Tampa International Airport. In her remarks, she reiterated how these new relations with Cuba will spur prosperity for the Cuban people and open opportunities for U.S. businesses in Tampa, across Florida, and around the country.</p>
<p>Secretary Pritzker, during her remarks in Tampa, further clarified the Department of Commerce’s crucial role in reestablishing economic ties with Cuba pointing out that the Department will guide and facilitate more travel to the island and open the door to more trade:</p>
<p>“Here is the bottom line,” Secretary Pritzker explained: “we need these new trade agreements, or our businesses and the workers they employ risk being left behind. Our new policy allows American firms to increase exports of goods like agricultural products, medicines and medical devices, and building materials, to an untapped market.”</p>
<p>The Commerce Department's further regulatory revisions for exports to Cuba reflect the overall effort of the Obama Administration to adapt policies to new challenges and opportunities, as America continues to lead and compete in a global economy. </p>
<p>Changes resulting from the removal of the State Sponsor of Terrorism designation include permitting the reexport to Cuba of foreign-made products with up to 25% U.S.-origin content, (up from the current level of 10%), and also generally allowing the export of replacement parts for items legally exported to Cuba. In addition, general aviation, such as corporate jets, may now use license exceptions for trips to Cuba. License exceptions allow for exports or reexports under certain conditions that would otherwise require a license under the EAR. Previously, only charter flights were eligible for this license exception. Consistent with the comprehensive embargo on trade with Cuba, however, a license will still be required to export or reexport to Cuba any item subject to EAR unless a license exception is available. </p>
<p>The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is one of twelve bureaus of the Department of Commerce. The BIS controls exports and reexports of commodities, technology, and software to support national security and foreign policy, including nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, and missile non-proliferation, human rights, regional stability, and curbing terrorism. BIS has <a href="http://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/compliance-a-training">posted guidance </a>to help exporters understand the updated regulations.</p>
Tue, 21 Jul 2015 18:14:46 -0400kcpullen@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/bureau-industry-and-security-implements-removal-state-sponsor-terrorismCommerce and the Digital Economy – Towards A Transatlantic Partnership http://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/commerce-and-digital-economy-towards-transatlantic-partnership
<p><em>Guest blog post by Alan Davidson, Director of Digital Economy, U.S. Department of Commerce</em></p>
<p>This week Commerce Secretary Pritzker travels to Brussels, and issues facing the digital economy will be top of mind. As a starting point for that conversation, it’s worth reviewing what is at stake and why the Commerce Department is working to support innovation and investment online -- on both sides of the Atlantic.</p>
<p>The Internet and the digital economy are a critical part of the world’s economic future. They are a source of jobs and growth, an enabler of global trade, a path to economic opportunity, and a platform for speech and civic engagement. The Internet economy already represents over 4.7 percent of U.S. GDP. According to <a href="https://www.bcgperspectives.com/content/articles/media_entertainment_strategic_planning_4_2_trillion_opportunity_internet_economy_g20/?chapter=2">one study</a>, in G-20 developed markets the Internet economy is expected to grow at an annual rate of 8 percent over the next five years, far outpacing just about every traditional economic sector. For many people, the digital economy will where they find their next job or their next business opportunity.</p>
<p>But we cannot take this success for granted. Businesses need to deal with new technologies and disruptive forces. New barriers to the free and open Internet could undermine the ability to communicate and do business globally. Concerns over security and consumer protection risk eroding trust in e-commerce. And businesses and workers will need new skills and greater access to compete in the global IT landscape and to share in the prosperity it offers.</p>
<p>This is why the Commerce Department has created a Digital Economy Leadership Team to further the Department’s efforts in this area. Its work this year will focus on four key opportunities:</p>
<ul>
<li>First, protecting the global free exchange of information. At Commerce, this includes promoting the free flow of data worldwide; transitioning domain name oversight to a new, accountable governance structure; and engaging with efforts like the EU’s Digital Single Market initiative.</li>
<li>Second, promoting trust and security online – essential for the success of the digital economy. The Department’s priorities include expanding its successful cybersecurity framework; modernizing the rules for government access to data; and supporting legislation to reform our patent system.</li>
<li>A third initiative is around promoting access and skills. Commerce is working to expand broadband access and adoption, and to equip workers with the skills they need to thrive in the digital economy.</li>
<li>Finally, Commerce is pursuing opportunities to engage with emerging new technologies early in the development life cycle, to help promote promising new fields and to assess long-term policy concerns.</li>
</ul>
<p>Europe will be an essential partner in these efforts to promote an open digital economy that offers opportunity and improves lives around the world. For example, the US and EU have a total commercial relationship worth over <a href="http://www.transatlantictrade.org/faqs/economic-benefits-of-a-transatlantic-trade-and-investment-partnership/">$5 trillion</a> – powerful incentive to get the transatlantic digital relationship right in our trade agreements and in areas like the ongoing Privacy Safe Harbor negotiations. And Europe has been a leader in considering the broad issues facing the digital economy, most recently through its Digital Single Market Initiative.</p>
<p>Greater innovation and investment in the digital economy are a pathway to greater growth on both sides of the Atlantic. More broadly, the fruits of our transatlantic partnership will shape what kind of global Internet we have, and whether it will continue to be an engine of opportunity worldwide. There is a lot to work on together.</p>
<p>As Secretary Pritzker spends this week meeting with European businesses and stakeholders, and her government counterparts in Brussels, we will be sharing more thoughts on the Department’s efforts to support a vibrant transatlantic – and global – digital marketplace.</p>
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Tue, 21 Jul 2015 17:33:35 -0400kcpullen@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/commerce-and-digital-economy-towards-transatlantic-partnershipPAGE Video Series: Kiva’s Julie Hannahttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-kivas-julie-hanna
<p>New to the Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE) program this year, Julie Hanna understands how important it is to inspire and provide support to potential entrepreneurs around the globe. As an immigrant from Egypt, Julie says that she would not have become the successful businesswoman she is today without the access she was given to new technology and other business resources.</p>
<p>During her career, Julie has always been passionate about providing these resources to potential entrepreneurs. She now serves as Executive Chair of the Board at Kiva, the world’s first and largest crowdlending marketplace for global entrepreneurs. She believes that “our mission is a more connected world without poverty.” Kiva, named a TIME magazine Top 50 website, is a catalyst for revitalizing local economies around the world and has brought together lenders and entrepreneurs to provide over $700 million microloans for 1.6 million entrepreneurs, to date.</p>
<p>As a PAGE member, Julie is committed to democratizing access to capital for entrepreneurs, particularly women and children. Her signature initiative – titled "Global Capital Access" – pledges to deliver $100 million in crowdfunded loans to 200,000 women and young entrepreneurs across 86 countries. This initiative will also support the U.S. entrepreneurs participating in PAGE events all over the world who will have an opportunity to receive crowdfunded loans through Kiva, giving them access to Kiva's global network of 1.3 million lenders in 198 countries.</p>
<p>Watch Julie talk more about her goals as a PAGE member <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZE4JlR3f_S4">here</a>.</p>
<p>To deliver the message of PAGE’s mission and discuss his new initiative, Hanna will attend the <a href="http://www.ges2015.org/">2015 Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES)</a> in Nairobi, Kenya with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker. Hanna will use her voice and platform to connect with and inspire entrepreneurs at GES, <a href="//www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2015/07/us-commerce-secretary-penny-pritzker-attend-global-entrepreneurship">alongside other PAGE ambassadors</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About PAGE</strong>:</p>
<p>Launched in April 2014, PAGE was created to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and abroad. The initiative formed as a partnership among celebrated entrepreneurs, the White House, the Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Department of State. In the initiative’s first year, PAGE members utilized their knowledge, ideas, and talent to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and around the world to promote the program’s mission. As PAGE kicks off its second year, each ambassador has agreed to take the lead on his or her own signature initiative to address the global growing demand for engagement with America’s most respected and celebrated business creators.</p>
<p> </p>
Tue, 21 Jul 2015 17:30:14 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-kivas-julie-hannaPAGE Video Series: Airbnb’s Brian Cheskyhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-airbnbs-brian-chesky
<p>Brian Chesky, co-founder of Airbnb, believes that “the idea of an entrepreneur means to be empowered, to be able to create your own destiny, and to create the kind of world you want to live in.”</p>
<p>Airbnb is a trusted community marketplace for people to list, discover, and book unique accommodations around the world, and it provides interesting ways for people to travel, and changes the lives of its home communities. The marketplace now includes the country of Cuba, which has nearly doubled its Airbnb locations in the span of 40 days. Under Chesky’s entrepreneurial leadership, Airbnb stands at the forefront of the sharing economy, and has expanded to over 1,000,000 listings in 190 countries. Even with this success, Chesky still constantly strives to find new ways to propel his company’s vision, strategy and growth forward. </p>
<p>Brian Chesky’s passion for exposing others to entrepreneurship, especially on a global scale, led the Obama administration to select him as a new member of the <a href="//www.commerce.gov/page">Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE) initiative</a>. His signature initiative will work to expand Cuba’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by increasing Internet literacy; promoting practical education in areas including photography art, and marketing; and introducing online payment systems to support Cuban entrepreneurs. Additionally, Airbnb will provide lodging and meeting-space opportunities at global gatherings and events for entrepreneurs to enhance collaboration and partnerships.</p>
<p>Watch Brian Chesky talk about his recent work in Cuba in collaboration with PAGE <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rFfXInYpjA">here</a>.</p>
<p>To deliver the message of PAGE’s mission and discuss his new initiative, Chesky will attend the <a href="http://www.ges2015.org/">2015 Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES)</a> in Nairobi, Kenya with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker. Brian will use his voice and platform to connect with and inspire entrepreneurs at GES, <a href="//www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2015/07/us-commerce-secretary-penny-pritzker-attend-global-entrepreneurship">alongside other PAGE ambassadors</a>.</p>
<p><strong>About PAGE</strong>:</p>
<p>Launched in April 2014, PAGE was created to develop the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and abroad. The initiative formed as a partnership among celebrated entrepreneurs, the White House, the Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Department of State. In the initiative’s first year, PAGE members utilized their knowledge, ideas, and talent to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs both at home and around the world to promote the program’s mission. As PAGE kicks off its second year, each ambassador has agreed to take the lead on his or her own signature initiative to address the global growing demand for engagement with America’s most respected and celebrated business creators.</p>
<p> </p>
Tue, 21 Jul 2015 15:32:56 -0400ktyler@doc.govhttp://www.commerce.gov/news/blog/2015/07/page-video-series-airbnbs-brian-chesky